Why I think the 3.6 Pentastar is a great engine.

In this episode I talk about the 3.6 Pentastar V6 available in the Dodge Challenger and Charger SXT and GT models, as well as many other models throughout Chryslers lineup. What's good about it, should you modify it, what mods should you do? We tackle that and more this week.
08:14 Driving impressions.
14:41 What mods should you do to your 3.6?
Instagram: @trackpackrt

[@hoganfan924]

I was the Program Manager on the 3.6L Pentastar engine program between 2006-2008, and left Chrysler just as development was being completed. Before that, I was an engine development Sr. Engineer on other Chrysler engines. I appreciate the love here for the Pentastar, it was a great team & engine to work on. :) Chrysler has always had great engine engineers, and hugely upgraded their development & durability testing processes in the 90's-2000's, which I played a role in (I created more rigorous test procedures). Pentastar has had it's few small issues over the years, but with over 10 million made, it's proven the test of time. One point - 4V/cyl engines produce more torque than 2V pushrod engines at the same displacement. I "drive what I developed," and own 4 cars with Chrysler engines, including a 3.6L Durango, two 2006 MINI Cooper S' (yes, they have Chrysler engines that I worked on), and an '09 Challenger with a 5.7L (didn't work on that program). I love the smoothness, torque, power and fuel economy of my Durango.

[@TrackPackRT]

Thanks so much for the comment! I love hearing from the guys who developed and worked on these projects! I had one of the engineers from comp cams drop a comment on one of my 5.7 cam install videos, it’s always great chatting with the guys behind our favourite engines and performance products. Personally I can say I was extremely happy Chrysler came out with the 3.6 when they did, as my 2001 Grand Cherokee had just been put out to pasture, and I wanted a Wrangler but was put off by the 3.8 that was in the earlier JKs. The added power and efficiency the 3.6 brought in was really needed at the time. I very much agree with your point about the number of units produced and the reliability of the production run as a whole. Being a 5.7 guy as well there’s some sentiment out there that the 5.7 isn’t reliable, and that’s just not the case. Same thing with some of the comments about reliability of the 3.6 even in this video, the way some commenters talk you’d think every engine is trouble where by and large the 3.6 is really reliable and it has to be as it’s in almost every platform Dodge makes. Thanks so much for weighing in and for your hard work making the engines we all love to drive, enjoy and modify!

[@EarthSurferUSA]

Tell them that I think the head cracking issue is because the cats are too restrictive. I just picked up a used Jeep with this engine from late 2013, so I don't know for sure,----but I bet the cylinder with the problem is the closest to the cat, and this engine likes to rev, (if you want to get to the power of it. Peak HP at red line.). 109k on it. I think I will have the coolant flushed, and the drive train fluids changed,---and gut the cats. :) I could tell right away the engine heats up the water faster than any car I have had,---and then the engine management takes over to not over heat on the gauge. The temp is fine when running. If I am right, (I will be able to tell by the engine temps, even opening the hood after operation), I expect to get many more miles out of it. Now. Please tell me. Where are the darn spark plugs!? :) Doug in Michigan.

[@fedupwithfedforever4151]

So YOU'RE one of the guys that put bolts and parts where they're impossible to get at !

[@naughtyponyracing]

I appreciate you man, Thanks for making soming I love and cherish, Im that wierdo that actually hunted down a v6 model of Challenger, lightfooting it I get economy, leadfooting it I get over 300hp with a sound quite unlike any car out there, Merry Christmas thanks for my SXT Challenger,

[@jthouston44]

There are alot of mechanics and DIY guys that have cursed your name and your team out for the shit show that motor is to work on

[@richardghio5072]

You get what you can afford or want. It does not matter what other people say.

[@TrackPackRT]

Absolutely!

[@m2003h]

That is the Main thing. But I see his point I like My 3.6

[@danielphillipsmusic9145]

My 16 Rubicon just passed 187k miles. Still runs like a top. Absolutely love the pentastar.

[@rnt45t1]

I love my 3.6 Challenger. Never had a problem. Plenty of car for me, who cares what anybody else thinks. Almost 5 years into ownership, I still love my car.

[@Camopar87]

I have a 13 Charger with the 3.6 and it's a great engine. It has 150,000 miles on it and still runs like new. It has good acceleration for what it is. It's just a daily and does great at what I need it to

[@TrackPackRT]

It’s a great engine for a daily driver!

[@dustyveilplays]

Same I have a 3.6 Challenger with over 100k miles still kicks ass. I fill up once a week.

[@the_truth50]

That's nice to see !! All I hear is how bad dodge engines are and all this crap, I have a 2020 Durango GT I hardly use it but I love it...

[@mbf6160]

Awesome

[@P1_M1ND]

3rd generation 3.6 pentestar is what you want. I’m very happy with my 2020 grand Cherokee.

[@ricanredliner]

@Серебряный Пла́вник 2016 and up

[@leadnsteel1428]

Yeah they can be a good engine if you maintain them. I got a Ram Promaster van for buisness and I run Castrol oil

[@ricanredliner]

@@leadnsteel1428 I’d recommend only using Pennzoil like the manual says. Chrysler requires the MS-6395 additive. You might want to check is Castro has that.

[@ricanredliner]

@Sea Life then that’s all you should be using for this engine

[@ricanredliner]

@Sea Life yea I would have thought that too. But the manual literally says use Pennzoil so that’s what I do.

[@darrengray1849]

I’ve got the 3.6 in my 2015 Ram 1500. I don’t tow much. It’s mostly just a daily driver. Plenty of acceleration when I need it, and not constantly feeding it. It’s a nice engine.

[@moondoggy6243]

I have a 2019 V6 challenger and I love the performance and besides, treat it gentle and the gas mileage is very good.

[@TrackPackRT]

Absolutely.

[@DLongfellow]

I love my 2018 Challenger GT, it’s awesome for ND year round daily driver.

[@robjennings4109]

There’s a video on here of a penta with 626,000 miles that only failed because of bad timing chains. It shows the internals and there still immaculate!

[@bartoszri]

Hi, what is a average fuel economy with this engine ??

[@LamontBoucherville]

@@bartoszri it's great. I get 600 km on one tank(70 litres)

[@bartoszri]

@@LamontBoucherville ca.11,5 l/100 km. Thx

[@abdullahal-shimri3091]

My pentastar only has 70k miles and runs like brand new

[@SeahorseFarrier]

@@bartoszri 7.9-8.8l/100km on a mostly highway commute. 36km to work one way. 8.6 average. High 7s if I keep it to 100km/h or less.

[@37greenfox]

Actually the 3.6's have less problems than the hemi's. Also a lighter engine making over 300hp and natural aspirated. Also fantastic gas mileage. Also the GT package awd muscle cars.

[@LamontBoucherville]

Sxt has avaliabe Awd too

[@Keith77ism]

💪💪💪

[@beezteeez]

I love mine 2018 dodge charger gt plus AWD cut out the mid mufflers fired in a cold air I'm happy meanest looking family sedans on the road

[@microminiskirt]

Doesnt not have "HEMI TICK" problem or MDS issues the 5.7 and 6.4 392 8 spd. Automatic transnission equipped Dodge Challenger has?🤔🤔

[@evanreuschling5177]

The 2015 and up 200 had the worst problems. Especially with the transmission.

[@wayneweaver2341]

I’m from the 80’s and 90’s and 300HP was the goal from a V8 street car. Header intake and Cam could get you there but who had the money and time for all that out of HS. Now in 2010’s and up 300hp from a base model is awesome. I love this era of HP wars. IMO after 400 HP is crazy performance and 500hp and above is way more than you could use safely. Thanks for the review and 300 hp from a drivable v6 is going to be plenty for fun.

[@TrackPackRT]

Crazy time to be alive hey?

[@SeahorseFarrier]

I remember the 1990 300ZX twin turbo putting out an amazing 333hp.

[@luisinhoens90]

@@SeahorseFarrier Back in the day the Japanese companies had a gentleman's agreement not to state their cars' hp above 300. Not much thereafter we got to know most of those 300hp vehicles were actually underrated.

[@garysgarage.2841]

In the 80s I was building 500hp small block Chevys when I was 17. 300hp don't waist my time 500hp isn't bad it's actually really good for every day driving but not much compared to what you can do today and it's real easy to get used to.

[@MuppetMaster-yd6xq]

300hp is enough for me,no need for crazy 1000hp engines,specially with gas prices nowadays!

[@richierichh149]

Own a 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee 3.6 since 2013..186K miles. only replaced alternator and water pump. I'm ok getting 22-23 mpg highway. Love it.

[@hakankohkoinen8192]

I have a 2011 wrangler, that engine is just the best 👍👌

[@rockhopper01]

Bought my ‘21 Challenger Scat Pack 2 weekends ago. No way was I getting rid of my ‘19 SXT AWD though. I still get tons of compliments on it, most people really can’t tell the difference between the trims. Perfect daily driver, especially if you live where winter is a thing.

[@TrackPackRT]

Good point! That’s the funny thing, car guys scrutinize over trim levels and engine options and how fast your car is ect, but anyone not really into cars has no idea what the difference between a Hellcat and a GT are! I hear that, winter is ugly up here, that’s why the Jeep takes over from Nov-March!

[@yourlame9795]

I agree man for sure, I have a truck for the winter but I wouldn't mind the sxt for a daily.

[@KTony-go6zt]

@@yourlame9795 Lmfaoo just make sure to get the GT I got the sxt and the GT just looks a lot more aggressive and is only a few thousand more

[@wolverinebear5357]

Awd is the way to go

[@LamontBoucherville]

@@KTony-go6zt they both look the same

[@nick__cars]

It’s a very reliable motor. My 2013 Avenger R/T had the 3.6 with a 0-60 of 6.1 seconds. I had corsa exhaust on it, K&N intake and a hellcat hood.

[@slowg9706]

I always though the 3.6 was impressive, enjoyed this video

[@TrackPackRT]

Chrysler did a great job with it, thanks man!

[@LeandroFTW]

I had a blast with my 3.6 Challenger. I have a 3.6 Wrangler JL now

[@314jeepsnmopars3]

I love the 3.6 in my JL way more power than my 98 Grand Cheokees 4.0.

[@chris92282]

I recently was in the market for a Chrysler 300 and have always liked them from the very beginning. I was considering the V6 over the V8 and found several 300’s with the both engines and purposely wanted to drive the V6 first because I wanted to give it a chance.and thought there was no way I was going to like it, I’ve always driven V8’s, I thought it would be underpowered because of the weight of the car. I was so impressed with V6 I bought it and didn’t even test the V8. I say buy what you can afford and not worry about what other people think.

[@microminiskirt]

Yes I agree. Years ago with the last generation of the Challenger from 2015 to current I test drove a V6 Challenger, the 5.7 Challenger and the 6.4 Scatpack Challenger. I COULD NOT feel the difference in power or acceleration between the V6 and the 5.7. In that case, I would have bought the V6 over the 5.7. However it's the 6.4 Challenger Scatpack that you can feel the real difference and of course alot more expensive than the smaller engine Challengers at twice the price.

[@kenrobinson1099]

We're on our second and third 3.6 powered Chryslers and have had zero issues. there's a video I recently watched on the KZbin with a guy tearing down a 600+ mile 3.6 out of a Ram Promaster which speaks volumes about the engine.

[@KubanKevin]

3.6’s are pretty reliable especially after they worked out the head and rocker arm issues. Pretty solid motors especially if you take care of them.

[@Chrysler_Solo]

I love my 3.6 I changed the throttle body out etc..and in the process of getting a R/T Durango. But I’m keeping my 200. Thanks for sharing 💯💯

[@countryroadautopartsusa6466]

Being on the Ward Automotive 10-Best Engines for several years certainly proves it is a great motor. The ones from 2014 until now are great engines. Lots of power and great fuel economy.

[@prestonjustis5547]

2015 Willys JK 2door Jeep with the 3.6 and 6 speed manual. Very reliable and fun to drive with excellent acceleration. Love my Jeep!

[@jimslayton1613]

I have one in a 2017 Ram cargo van. I was scared when I bought it, but I beat the crap out of things and it still going.

[@melvinjacobs2328]

I've had 2 Chargers with the 3.6 and love the engine. Over 30MPG on the road, and never any problems with it.

[@LuiszDiaz]

I really love the performance of the 3.6 Pentastar, I own a 200c 2015, that fine bullet go 0-60 mph / 0-100 km/h in 6 seconds and in roadway gives 34-40 mpg / 6-7 L/100 Km. Pretty smooth to drive, safe and fun in the same time. I can see why that engines is in almost every Dodge/Chrysler/Jeep. Congrats and thanks to the engineers that worked in that great engineering piece.

[@keonjenkins1852]

I am glad to see someone stick up for the Pentestar V6. I had a 2014 Dodge Charger SE with the 3.6. Due to putting money into the Charger, ITraded it for a 2019 Toyota Camry SE 4 cylinder. Did it for reliability. But then realized that my heart will always be with Mopars. So I will be looking into going back into a Charger later this year. Thank you for help V6 Mopar owners feel proud of what they have. And I agree with you on the RIPP supercharger. That’s like buying another car.

[@TrackPackRT]

Good luck on your search my man, hope you find yourself an awesome mopar!

[@keonjenkins1852]

@@TrackPackRT Thanks man I appreciate it.

[@jeffmollon5940]

2 years ago bought my 2018 Durango with 70,000km heavy but love it has the v6 aswell but need a trusted maintenance garage, recently this week I've noticed almost a ticking sound, opened the hood to see if belt had any damage or ware see nada checked all pulleys turn or spins properly . Hopefully its not lifters like I see in another video..

[@phonebackup8132]

The 3.6 is at least as reliable as any Toyota. My wife has a 06 charger with 270,000 miles on it. It's a 3.5 and it runs as good as it did new.

[@robertbass974]

My pentastar experience has been great. My first was in a 2012 jeep that was trouble-free for 85000 miles when I sold it. My son had a 2011 charger that he bought used with 60,000 miles and drove it until his wife was hit by a drunk driver and totaled it at 125,000 miles. I now have a 2020 Jeep Wrangler with 40,000 miles with no problems. That's over 250,000 miles total without a pentaster engine problem!

[@revelation13_9]

I had a 3.6L Pentastar in my Ram 1500, and now have a '23 Wrangler 2-door with that engine e-torque. I was/am blown away by the power in both. Excellent engine.

[@clutchin7017]

As a mechanic that gets a lot of these cars to my shop with 3.6 pentastar has only been for rocker arms replacement since no other shop knows that around here apparently lol, but I’ve seen them with over 200k miles and running beautiful, they’re incredibly easy to work on easiest v6 out there, I’ve never seen or heard of any timing issues or vvt problems like ford 3.5 and gm 3.6 or Toyota’s phasers destroying inside overall a great engine👌🏻

[@TrackPackRT]

That’s what I’m hearing out there from them, honestly they’re a pretty decent engine, and they’ve got to be; Dodge has them in almost every vehicle in their lineup!

[@jeffreyzabawski4862]

I just got 21 Charger 3.6 and its already Ticking and only getting worse.

[@clutchin7017]

@@jeffreyzabawski4862 30 minute $100 fix

[@jeffreyzabawski4862]

@@clutchin7017 what exactly would be covered for $100?

[@patricklarocque1550]

@@clutchin7017 30 min $100 fix? Really? you need about 1 hour just to remove everything to get to the rockers, and then reassemble everything. that's at least a 3 hours job + parts...

[@MMID303]

My Gladiator has the 3.6 Pentastar and it seems more than adequate. I also love how easy it is to do an oil change with the filter being on top. It has enough get up and go for me. I don't have any problems with a v6. My 2015 Silverado has a 4.3 V6 and it feels like the baby V8 GM used to offer.

[@TrackPackRT]

Very true! Just don’t over torque that oil fil cap or it could cause the oil cooler to start leaking under the intake. Enjoy your Jeep!

[@MMID303]

@@TrackPackRT oh yea, i didn't actually torque to spec because of fear of cracking it. I did 15 instead of 18lbs.

[@debbierajo1]

Wait till they over tighten it and you need to change the whole oil filter part they don’t sell just the cap

[@mlaugh3]

Great break down of the the V6. I have one in my vehicle. I like it and it runs pretty well.

[@TrackPackRT]

Yea man, solid motor!

[@cutlerylover]

Why didnt you get a V8? Best answer...Because if I did we would have nothing to argue about lol...

[@TrackPackRT]

😂

[@RickNethery]

Best answer is because you're secure in your manhood. 🤣

[@siahtheone3609]

@@RickNethery lmaoooooo

[@erikdahl3171]

Brother in law has a Charger SXT. Did a CAI, exhaust and peddle commander. Car is actually pretty impressive and gets awesome fuel milage.

[@RickNethery]

@@erikdahl3171 Those are great cars, really nice blend of power and efficiency.

[@hemihead392]

The 3.6 is a good engine. I have a 2019 grand caravan and am really happy with the power, and it is well behaved and reliable. No shame putting that in the base model cars in any way.

[@TrackPackRT]

It really is a great engine!

[@Clamjammer]

Hahah those vans are actually pretty damn quick!!

[@rockhopper01]

Yes sir. We drive a fleet of Caravans at work, and the van has more power then grip! I always laugh when I’m at a light and people switch to the other lane because they probably think I’m gonna be slow.

[@GreenJeep1998]

My Dad has a 2020 and it will move, if you aren’t smoking the tires, that is!

[@La-yt1wr]

Good motor but not a fan of those Chrysler 6 speed automatics

[@RyanLovesGV]

All I can say is that the 3.6L pentastar v6 picks up a lot of power then you expect

[@be020964]

I have a09 Challenger SRT8 my wife has 18 Journey with the 3.6 and it will scat !! Has fun to drive as my SRT8 . Nice video

[@kennethburton8176]

I just bought a 2018 Jeep w 13k miles and the 3.6 pentastar engine. I’m Beyond the days of driving a car hard, but let me tell you this Car has BALLS! And the engine sounds rock solid. I 100% love the car and engine n will maintain it meticulously. But have no doubt it will go 100k+ miles.

[@TonyJH1982]

I'm thoroughly impressed with the 3.6 Pentastsar in my 2018 Dodge Caravan! I can load the family and luggage and have plenty of torque and power to cruise down the highway!

[@Basslightning666]

Great video bro! My Mopar Driving experience started with a Dodge Shadow ES 5 speed manual. It had a 3.0 liter V6 with DOHC, and I had a lot of great adventures in it... Now I drive an RT Shaker V8, and I love it as well... Just a little more...lol

[@TrackPackRT]

Dodge Shadow, haha that takes me back! I always loved the Stealths from that era even though it was a group project with Mitsubishi. Love the shakers on the Hemi's man, sounds like you've got yourself a really nice ride!

[@Basslightning666]

@@TrackPackRT Ya, menacing street muscle... Love the Shaker when it shakes...lol

[@geneo317]

We have a 2013 Town and Country van runs like a champ. We purchased it brand new and we had all routine maintenance performed which is key to any engines longevity. Really had no issues with it

[@rode8173]

Great job. Love the insight

[@robc8468]

The 3.6 liter Pentistar is a fantastic engine I have it in a 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee and my wife's 2012 Journey. The Pentistar really shines with the 8 speed ZF based automatic. I too had a Firebird a 1976 Formula 400 V-8 3 speed automatic that only made 180 HP. We are in the golden age of factory performance cars. I don't know how much longer it will last since the "green police" are pushing 1.4 liter turbos that need to vive red line just to keep up with commuter traffic. BTW I own a 2019 Challenger 5.7 RT 8 speed fantastic car that puts most stock small block muscle cars from the 1960s to shame and gets over 20 mpg if driven conservatively. BTW we owe the existence of the 5.7 and all 3rd generation Hemi V-8s to RAM/Dodge pickup truck owners without them an affordable Hemi based v-8 car would not be economically viable at low volume.

[@TrackPackRT]

You are absolutely right, the 5.7 has paved the way for the rest of this amazing Hemi crazyness. Without it's success there might not be any Hellcats running around. I still have an 81 Trans Am with a gutless 150 hp 305 in it! We are indeed in the muscle car era right now. I don't think it'll die off though to be honest. I think it'll transform. Electric cars will change things for the better I really believe. If the majority of people have them for their commuters eventually total emissions from cars will be a small fraction of what they used to be and there will be no reason to regulate them into the ground. Also the performance on a lot of them is really quite insane. Got to drive in a Tesla Model S with around 500hp. That thing moves. I don't think performance will ever get as bad again as it was in the late 70s and 80s. Here's hoping anyway. haha

[@jmax6614]

I love my 3.6 in my 2016 ram with 400,000 miles on it, I like it so much that I bought a 2019 with the 3.6

[@TrackPackRT]

Wow that’s a long lasting motor!

[@jmax6614]

@@TrackPackRT yeah, there's a guy on here if you search pentastar 3.6 that has 626,000 miles. Good little motors and if driven gentle will give you really great mpg

[@rudyroy9132]

God dam 400k miles 😳

[@ununitedstateofhysteria8792]

What all major did you have to replace in the engine? I have one with 250k and worried on what to expect at this point

[@leadnsteel1428]

@@TrackPackRT damn didnt think they would last that long.... the 3.3v6 was good but I know the earlier versions of the 3.6 were made wrong

[@Gloomwidow]

I have the 2019 GT RWD with the 3.6 and I love it. Live in a big city. Getting into traffic is key. Does just fine. Plenty fast enough for me.

[@beezteeez]

Western Canada here Kelowna Bc love my 3.6 AWD get lots of snow here too and the cars a beast good video

[@La-yt1wr]

The 3.6 is a great motor and I've mostly enjoyed the motor in the Chrysler 200, because the exhaust sounds almost like Maserati's V6 which I like. But I recommend getting a FCA product with the third generation Pentastar V6.

[@TrackPackRT]

There are some V6 exhausts that sound great absolutely!

[@pijun1312]

not great not teribble

[@anthonyvasquez7050]

@@TrackPackRT which ones ?

[@Mike_44]

Having always owned Japanese cars, it was a challenge for me stepping up to an American minivan. I also considered the Odyssey, but after some research and big savings I went with the Pacifica, we really like it!

[@kanth66]

The Dodge minivans with 3.6 l are work horses for our business, and plenty of taxi companies use them. I find the Japanese and the Korean minivans are too delicate for work.

[@ModernRedHemi]

Dude you are so spot on. I had a 2010 Jeep Liberty with the P6 for 8 years before it got totaled and it was super reliable and a beast, especially off road. Now I have a Cherokee with that engine in it. The one in the Chargers/Challengers can surprise you with a few mods and of course some kind of forced air. That can be a V8 killer. They need more respect than what they get. Budget it always key as well. Loved this video so keep them coming brother!

[@TrackPackRT]

I feel you man, I didn't really have a soft spot for Jeeps until I got my first 99 Grand Cherokee around 2008. That flipped a switch. Now I love them! haha. 305 hp is a lot of power for a base model, if I had that when I was a young lad I would've been ecstatic!

[@TrackPackRT]

@Spooky V8 does it burn it or do you have the dreaded oil cooler leak that my Jeep and pretty much every early 3.6 will develop?

[@TrackPackRT]

@Spooky V8 you'd notice an oil mark forming where you were parking. It's not a crazy leak but a slow drip. Very very common in the 3.6s.

[@rashadvq]

Have a 2013 Charger SE for 9 years have had 0 engine problems and it runs so smoothly

[@towcat]

I'm six months into the 3.6L in a minivan. Man, I miss my old 4.6L Mod V8, but I wouldn't give up the 3.6L. 300 Horsepower is no joke, especially if you're used to an old 180 horsepower EGA 3.3l or a 200 Horsepower 4.6.L Mod.

[@TrackPackRT]

Modern engines are really impressive compared to early 2000s motors absolutely!

[@towcat]

I work at a car auction and it's really cool to see how far cars have come in the last two decades.

[@thetechlibrarian]

Yeah 300 na horsepower is nothing to sneeze at.

[@michaelatkins9780]

Finally, somebody's is thinking. SPOT ON!

[@xXManxAxPartXx]

I have a 2023 Ram Classic with the V6 and it's awesome...pulls my side x side and my travel trailer with 0 issues...fucking live it man

[@stedco75]

Have the 3.6 in my Grand Cherokee and I love it so far. Moves the Jeep well despite it weighing 4,500 lbs. Of course it doesn’t sound as good as the Hemi but has enough grunt for my liking. And it will get mid-20s mpg on the highway which is pretty good for this type vehicle.

[@strongsarcasm]

I have a charger gt and i absolutely love the 3.6. Knowing the little issues and knowing i have a pretty reliable motor in the car is great. And the trans being reported to hit 150,000 to 180,000 miles is absolutely great

[@luisinhoens90]

The trans can do way more than that. Mine's got 280K as we speak. Just change the fluid and pan every 80K-100K miles and you're golden. I only use MOPAR and ZF fluid. The ZF8 is one of the most reliable multispeed transmissions in the world with a better record than the 8L from GM and the 10R from Ford. I'm on two Ram forums and there was a guy with over 400K on his Ecodiesel Ram; he did 100K fluid changes.

[@RickySlatton]

211,000 miles on mine and still going strong 💪🏾 original engine and transmission.

[@RickySlatton]

@@luisinhoens90How is your 3.6 holding up?

[@heythere6983]

@luisinhoens90 What if it has more than 150 thousand? What do you mean by pan? Lol.

[@jeffreyzabawski4862]

The way Dodge Tuned the Durango GT is pretty awesome. You literally feel like you driving a computer. Awesome power for a V6 while riding really smooth and real quiet besides the engine, while also providing pretty god gas mileage for what you get.

[@TrackPackRT]

That VVT is really awesome! I wish I could keep mine when going to a bigger cam! It really helps add punch to the low end on the 3.6 V6.

[@jeffmollon5940]

2018 Durango gt love it 2 years now with 70,000km just need to last like what I'm seeing here with ton kms

[@ScottSmith-ei7gv]

Best channel going right now. Good job man. Your topics really help the average joe....

[@TrackPackRT]

Appreciate the kind words Scott!

[@moniszereik8610]

I can totally relate to this video! Awesome stuff!

[@PistonShack]

Overall 3.6 VVT Pentastar is a decent engine with some non critical issues. If you know how to avoid and prevent failures, 3.6 V6 is good engine which can last up to 500K. Great video, KZbin recommended to watch today. It was worth watching all way to the very end. Cheers!

[@TrackPackRT]

Agreed! Thanks for watching!

[@anthonyvasquez7050]

216k on mine. Adding a oil catch can, flushing the coolant fluid and transmission. Also going to find some one to tune the ecu so the cooling fans turn on at a lower temperature. I’ll be happy if I can get to 320k with no major issues

[@septsixquatredeux]

The Equinox Sport 2008 has this engine also but is it A Pentastar😂?

[@heythere6983]

When did you change the trans fluid? Mileage?

[@jamescunningham4180]

I had a 5.7 hemi in my Grand Cherokee limited 2018 390 lb of torque 360 horsepower. Now I have a 20/20 Grand Cherokee x limited with a 3.6 dual exhaust with cold air induction. And it's just fine people say the same thing to me. Why didn't you get the V8. Plenty of power velvet red performance hood and all the bells and whistles including panoramic roof and toll package with pirelli tires Verde. Leather 43,000 out the door. It's a great truck and a great deal.🇺🇸👍🤣

[@TrackPackRT]

Grand Cherokees are absolutely great rides!

[@alexalanis4830]

Still no regrets buying the 3.6 instead of the 5.7? Part of me still regrets not purchasing a Grand Cherokee with the 5.7. However, with gas prices going up I appreciate the mileage of the 3.6.

[@budsodalsky]

This engine I have in a 2014 grand caravan - I bought it because if this powerful engine! I have 167,000 + on it now - can't say enough how this engine is great - as good as the LS program - as far as defects - my 2000 LS chev knocked when cold at 17,000 miles! The 3.6 Pentastar is a great engine! Still getting the exact same gas mileage as when it was brand new!

[@mrchezze84]

I have the 3.6 in my ram truck and love it....plenty of power and very good gas millage.

[@J_Braz_]

The engine im my 94 Chevy single cab is pretty good. 5.7 tbi doesn't leak or burn any oil. 208k miles. Still idles smooth and steady.

[@TrackPackRT]

Haha my friends dad had one of those trucks, I remember you’d drive it across town and back and you’d be down like a half a tank of gas! He had it a long time though.

[@J_Braz_]

@@TrackPackRT yeah, mines running pretty rich. Could use a little tuning. Thanks for the response friend.

[@srtmetal7647]

I may be mistaken but I recall they developed the 3.6 to handle boost just in case fords ecoboost line was a runaway success. All your points were great on it.

[@TrackPackRT]

I did see that too, a twin turbo 3.6 would be awesome!

[@srtmetal7647]

@@TrackPackRT Keep a look out for the Tornado Straight 6 dodge is developing. 3.0 Turbocharged. They estimate we'll over 400HP. 👍

[@TrackPackRT]

@@srtmetal7647 that would be pretty bad ass!

[@hardrockrelics2157]

@@srtmetal7647 it’s basically a better engineered Alfa Romeo “Giulia Quadrafoglio” engine. Alfa is a Chrysler brand .

[@3rdeyemusicmcdonald631]

Both my Grand Cherokee's have the 3.6 . My wranglers the same, love mine !!!!

[@ConnorAvocado0313]

Just got my first car a 2019 challenger with a v6 in it. Some Gearheads I know constantly give me shit while driving shitbox trucks that fall apart constantly and need constant work. I would have preferred a v8 challenger but I got what I could afford and I am not regretting my purchase in the slightest.

[@cerogravity8653]

Here soon all trims might come with the v6 penta or electric I can see maybe a twin turbo charged v6

[@rockhopper01]

Sad but true.

[@cjfauxx6266]

Back in March, I test drove a 2018 Challenger GT AWD. it was gloss black and i loved it. I cant afford anything atm but I hope to get one like it someday.

[@dginia]

My entry level 1973 duster had the Slant 6. I have had several cars with that engine, but none of them got satisfyingly good fuel mileage. My 2017 Pacifica with the 3.6 gets over 33 mpg on the interstate. I would have LOVED having this in the ‘73 Duster. Your comments on horsepower are right on from my perspective. Being a 1969 graduate, I was a witness to the muscle car revolution and my Dad told me of the really high insurance premiums some kids had to pay because of their missuse of their vehicles. I cannot imagine what those rates are today. I am focused on reliable daily drivers but I get the desire for power and performance.

[@TrackPackRT]

It’s nice to have the gas mileage with decent power for sure!

[@johnnyzee383]

I have a 2015 Challenger SXT with the trak pak option, and let me tell you something..this car is no slouch... I also had a 2006 300 with a 5.7 Hemi and although the 300 was faster, it wasnt that much faster...more torque for sure, but if I caught one off guard and he wasnt in the right gear, im gone...a 340 six pack's rating of 295 HP was a joke and anyone who knows these mopars knows through experience or Dynos that it was closer 340 Gross HP or probably around 300 NET, but that what my Challenger makes..and thats amazing..a very well tuned 340 Challenger and my challenger would be a good race in the quarter and if the older challenger didnt have at least a 3.90 gear (talking stock) he would be in trouble. 0-60 in 6 seconds and a mid 14 sec quarter is fast. Its just that everyone is wowwed by the ridiculous hell cats and other cars making 700+ HP and with no place to go. Ill take my 3.6 all day long.

[@TrackPackRT]

The 340s are awesome! They were always taking bigger engines by surprise! Horsepower ratings from that era are all kind of inconsistent but I used it just to illustrate a point. It really is amazing how much vehicles have advanced and how lighting quick they are now!

[@samiam9059]

My 3.2 has been flawless. 30+ mpg on the highway with near 300hp

[@spoonman475]

What car is that in?

[@samiam9059]

@@spoonman475 2015 Jeep Cherokee

[@spoonman475]

@@samiam9059 Oh cool. I have a 2014 with the v6. I was just wondering if the cherokee was the only thing that came with the 3.2

[@samiam9059]

@@spoonman475 Good question as I don't know. Maybe was a jeep only or chrysler used it?

[@samiam9059]

@@spoonman475 At that time they were in rush to keep making bigger six's and the 3.2 was not around long. But can't say enough so far on mine. No turbo needed and plenty of power. Pentastar has been on wards 10 best also.

[@chriswadlington2465]

I have been researching these engines for a least 4 years. In my opinion it is the single most reliable engine in the truck market today. That’s why I purchased one yesterday. 350 miles later, not disappointed at all

[@looseunit1615]

My 2017 Ram 1500. Has the Pentastar V6. It has a nice aggressive snarl when I plant my boot on the throttle. Being flex fuel is handy.

[@chevy-714]

I have a 2015 sxt challenger..with a few mods i keep up with the regular hemis .. soon will get the supercharger ripp

[@autodude634]

All that money your putting into it could have saved up for a v8. Be a man and buy a v8

[@chevy-714]

Sure buddy. I got 3 v8 ... ... all chevys....plus dont worried how i spend my money

[@chevy-714]

@@autodude634 plus im sure. My v6 alone will take on ur Lincoln hahahahhaha. With my street tune or with out it

[@autodude634]

Once you put the lightest amount of boost on that motor you will be ticking like a bat out a hell. At least when it comes back to the dealership we know that we are gonna have a fat wad of cash after doing a top teardown lol.

[@autodude634]

@chevy714 the Linc is my crusing car lol not for racing you sped

[@bryanbahling2877]

The 3.6 pentastar is actually fantastic. It's easily the most reliable engine in Chryslers entire gas lineup.

[@chadparsons1972]

How's all the plastic working out for you?

[@bryanbahling2877]

@@chadparsons1972 no issues on my gen 3

[@mails5054]

@@chadparsons1972 theyre all plastic nowadays, im sure ill run into issues having an offroad jeep in minnesota, oh well i like to work on cars

[@Railrodder]

I own a 2014 Charger SXT. It is hardly a base model. It's loaded with all kinds of options in comparison to the SE and the actual base model. I love this car! I bought it new and do not winter drive it. It is very fun to drive and has plenty of horsepower for very quick acceleration yet, when driving sensibly, also delivers very good fuel economy. I hail from Kingston, Ontario.

[@luisinhoens90]

I have owned a 2014 Ram 2WD with the V6 for the last 3.5 years and I love it. I have never opened the engine nor the transmission. I just replace fluids, although technically the transmission required pan replacement because the filter is integrated into it. My truck just crossed the 280K mark last weekend. I can't stop saying good things about these powertrains, they're very underrated for what they can do. The only thing I wish my Ram had was a more aggressive gear ratio as 3.21 is not enough for even the slightest grade. The tradeoff, fuel economy is fantastic for a full size truck, I came from an old 80s Nissan 4WD pickup with a 100hp 4cyl and 5 spd and the Ram has better FE overall

[@TrackPackRT]

That’s impressive!

[@7meredith7]

I would love to see them twin turbo the pentastar from the factory.

[@TrackPackRT]

That would be sick!

[@TheTrulove18]

The pentastar can't handle that type of boost you would have to get some arp head studs that cost like 500 or the heads will lift

[@walterk1221]

@@TheTrulove18 from the factory it would be using appropriate components. Compression ratio would be reduced for sure, piston cooling oil squirters would likely be upsized, oil cooler would likely be upsized, rods would likely be shotpeened like the 2.2 I4 turbo engines... and a host of other mods.

[@ericatkins6600]

3.6 pentastar is a great engine regardless of what people like Scotty Fuckin Kilmer say! I have a 2017 Pacifica and it’s been very reliable and gets great mpg for a large vehicle

[@RickNethery]

Scotty Kilmer came back and spoke highly of the 3.6.

[@TrackPackRT]

I'm not going to lie, I generally dislike what Mr Kilmer has to say a fair bit. To him unless it's a 1.8L Toyota it's crap. lol

[@RickNethery]

@@TrackPackRT He spoke pretty highly of the Dodge Charger in this video. I love the Charger but for different reasons than most people. To me it's the last of the sturdy rear wheel drive American sedans, I think they work well for a family car, a work car, or a commuter car. kzbin.info/www/bejne/imWrYqKCdsx6paM

[@kennyabreu6389]

Never never in you life sr compare Toyota truck , with a crap FCA/Chrysler never said that again, You wants to buy a good truck buy Toyota or Ford but stay away from FCA / Chrysler crap because they’re all garbage, trash, basura ...

[@RickNethery]

@@kennyabreu6389 I respect your opinion but have developed a strong admiration for Dodge trucks especially since I have used them on the job and own a F150 the same age. The Dodge is holding up better even under rougher conditions than my Ford. Also the engines are very close to the same size but the Dodge is more powerful. Toyota pickups are nice and last a long time but just don't interest me.

[@MrPHATSPEED]

They are really a great motor. I owned two RAM pickup with the 5.7L HEMI, but broken manifold bolts, and hemi lifter tick issues always lurked in the shadows. My latest RAM has the 3.6L Pentastar with the E-torque. Very impressed with the motor.

[@MrCravin8388]

I have a 2014 Challenger Redline 3.6. I love the red leather. All I need is a Pedal Commander to lose the lag in the pedal and this car is a blast to drive..it loves curves!

[@hu3.789]

There's nothing wrong with the Pentastar engine. The problem is that it is poorly matched with the Challenger and Charger. These cars are heavy and the weakness of the Pentastar is its lack of torque. The biggest fault that people find with V6 Challengers and Chargers is that it doesn't quite measure up to its competitors in terms of performance. The Camaro is lighter and has 30 more horsepower than the V6 Mopars. The Ecoboost Mustang as turbos and is responsive when it comes to low and midrange power. Base Camaros and Mustangs are cheaper to mod. V6 Challengers and Chargers aren't mod friendly. You have to pay to either unlock or buy a PCM to tune it. These V6 cars come with an open differential and tall gears. The exhaust manifold is part of the head so you can't install headers. Performance wasn't a priority when FCA decided to put the Pentastar in the Challengers and Chargers. If you want a reliable car that looks nice, is able to get out of its own way, and offers decent fuel economy then a V6 Challenger or Charger might be for you. If you're looking for performance out of a base model car, the Charger and Challenger isn't a great choice.

[@TrackPackRT]

I think you're right where Dodge doesn't care too much about who's base model is faster as that's not necessarily the intended purpose of the V6 cars. It's pretty close to the Camaro spec wise, but that ecoboost Mustang has some pretty decent power for an entry level car, lots of torque for a 4 cylinder thanks to to the turbo. As far as Chev and Ford being cheaper to mod, all I can say is welcome to owning a Mopar! That's how it's been since the original muscle car era in the 70's and it's no different now. Parts are way more expensive usually with less availability. I will say that manufacturers are starting to come around, albeit a little late to the game, and that's simply because the Challengers and Chargers are selling so well, and out selling the Camaro consistently. I agree that if performance is your end goal with a Challenger the V6 isn't a logical platform to go for. But if it's all you could budget because you have a family, or you're just starting out after high school and you know you're going to have the car for a long time because that's all that's in the budget in the foreseeable future, you can sneak it into the high 13s with basic mods that won't drastically change the characteristics of the car and that might make it a fair bit more fun to drive for you for the years you do have it.

[@johnnichols4494]

305 at the crank so realistically it’s only 250 hp

[@TrackPackRT]

To the wheels yes.

[@johnnyzee383]

@@TrackPackRT INCORRECT...please dont comment when you dont know what your talking about...the car would have about 250 rear wheel HP. The engine on the dyno like what Nick's Garage has, would be around 355 HP.

[@TrackPackRT]

@@johnnyzee383 Not sure if this is directed at me or not but a lot of the stock 3.6s seem to dyno in the 235-245 range to the wheels. I know the original comment said 250, which is probably a little high, but I didn't want to nitpick.

[@crazybenny747]

@@johnnyzee383 a 3.6 with a CAI puts about 263hp to the wheels less than that in torque. My bolt on boring 5.7 hemi makes 300+ lbs of torque at under 2000 RPMs which is more than a 3.6 makes peak. The Pentastar can make good power on boost but alot of people really over estimate the power....

[@johnnyzee383]

@@crazybenny747 I am a nitpicker..lol...and 263 HP at the rear wheels doesnt equate with the math...a max of 250 seems right maybe a little less...but thats still 305 NET HP and about 345 GROSS HP an amazing number given thats its only like 205 cubic inches!!.I am thinking of supercharging the motor, and I should get 100 HP more..

[@joekugelman4196]

I have one in my 2021 Ram Big Horn and am very impressed!

[@ChrisB-cx6td]

Really? How does it compare to the v8s

[@joekugelman4196]

@@ChrisB-cx6td well it definitely has enough power to get and go and it’s way easier on gas! I was skeptical on a V6 in a full sized truck but mine was a gift from the wife for x mas and when I drove it the first time, I was very surprised how it ran! The only weird thing it when you open the hood and see how far back the engine sits!!!

[@Yoshiyama_Nakamura]

I daily drive my 2020 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT (Flex Fuel) all the time and it had great power I too have the 3.6 L V6 VVT with 283hp and 260 lb-ft torque.

[@thomasculkin349]

My Chrysler 200C (awd) has the 3.6 liter. I agree, it is an excellent engine, After 7 years and 65,000 miles, I average 27 mpg (once reaching 32 mpg on a long trip). I have had NO engine problems and, other than a sometimes clunky transmission, haven't needed any services other than normal.

[@devildog5354]

Appreciate your wisdom, and comon sense. Live beneath your financial means, build financial security, don't try to impress others with what you own. Reward yourself when the time is right...

[@TrackPackRT]

I feel like that’s lost a lot out there in KZbin land. I mean a Hellcat red eye would be crazy but it’s worth more than I have left owing on my house....it wouldn’t be a smart move. Cheers!

[@franknappa1803]

i have a 2014 dodge charger 3.6 and it runs great no problems going on 6 years

[@buddyrevell4329]

Excellent video content! I've been eyeing the 300 with the 3.6 since I realized I couldn't get AWD with the baby hemi with the 8 speed transmission. I may very well end up with one.....who knows :-)

[@danielroth6136]

I encountered a young man with an obviously built Neon. You could tell from the engine note he had something. I drive a 2014 300s with the 3.6. We had a little early morning fun, but after a couple encounters, he won't even try. I can't say anything negative about my 3.6. All the usable power i could ask for and with AWD and sport mode its a blast

[@aztlannative162]

Crazy Canadians 🤙🏾. Respect from Los Angeles Ca. Busting a pull in icy conditions 💪🏾😎

[@TrackPackRT]

Haha it’s no problem for the Jeep! It would be sketchy in the Challenger!

[@thomasmazzola5768]

I have a 2015 chrysler 300 v6 pentastar 84000 so far no problems! Love this car!

[@Digital2pulse]

Gf who has a scatpack widebody challenger got me to get a 2017 dodge charger sxt Plus(basically regular sxt but with better interior and extra features), and i actually love it a lot, im still getting used to the size of my charger and i feel like it's really wide (previous car was a 2003 avalon), but so far so good, it may be a V6 but for what it is, its a fun daily with enough horsepower to still keep you engaged(300hp)

[@OnlyFps09]

2019 dodge charger gt v6 I love it so much 😊 nice video

[@TrackPackRT]

That AWD is pretty sweet!

[@GiancarloBruno1]

I own a 2011 Chrysler 300 with the 3.6 engine that I purchased new and must say the engine is excellent, very efficient, very good power and I never have had any issues with it at all. My Chrysler 300 gets about 22 mpg in mixed city type driving and 31-32 mpg highway on long trips. I love my Chrysler! the 3:6 engine runs like a fine watch. And this is coming from someone that used to work as a technician for Ford dealers for more than 20 years.

[@EarthSurferUSA]

There was a base Camaro around that time of your Fire bird that made 150hp,---so I didn't buy it. But I went a similar rout with a 2006 V-6 mustang, and put a roots blower on it, (put together by a guy in Ca., retired now.), and I love it. Of course, the exhaust and rear end had to be change, so I put more money into it than I wanted. Being painted now. It went from 210hp to 340hp, or more in cold weather. Pretty much, no matter what engine it is, if you put a blower on it, you make about 60% more power still running pump gas and a inter-cooler.

[@larrygoodsell9273]

My wife's 17 Journey, yes Journey snicker snicker, I get it, we needed the third row seat, continues to impress me even after 50K miles. The tune on the 6 speed auto leaves something to be desired but in manual mode it moves out pretty damn good for a big ole Mom car. I also just got my JLU Wrangler manual that I ordered in Jan, the engine/tranny choice was the was the only thing I didn't change repeatedly on the build site before I pulled the trigger. Granted I only have 1,500 miles on it so far but I absolutely love the drivetrain.

[@TrackPackRT]

I definitely feel the same way about my Wrangler!

[@m2003h]

My 2022 Mojave with it's 3.6 I love it.

[@wailingalen]

Got a 23 Wrangler JL Sport with the 3.6 with the 6MT (from what I've read it's also called the PUG, Pentastar upgrade, being the 3 rd gen. Very happy with this little SUV. Def had get up and go, had first oil change at 1500 miles and very fun to wind up through THE GEARS. this thing is pretty quick. Just got an ace muffler delete, and was not expecting anything worth writing home about, just louder really, but it's got a nice rumble to it now, and with it being a manual I can get some nice pops in the exhaust 😎

[@theboringchan]

I can't believe ur sitn there doing Acceleration runs with ice patches everywhere. Ur definitely a confident driver. Don't get cocky my friend. Unexpected circumstances happen.

[@LeadStarDude]

I was happy with the old 3.9 V6 in my 98 Dakota Sport back in the day. Had a 5 speed manual transmission and that 3.9 V6 provided plenty of power to that manual transmission. I kept it for 11 years before finally selling it. Still wish that I hadn't sold it. I am currently driving a regular cab 2005 Daytona edition Ram 1500 with the 5.7 (Go Mango Orange) that I bought used in 2007 with 24k miles on it at the time. Have 214k miles on it now.

[@TrackPackRT]

If you take care of them they generally last a long time!

[@mlaugh3]

I thought this video was about the 3.6 Pentastar.

[@LeadStarDude]

@@mlaugh3 it is, but he told a story about buying an older generation V6, and how much he liked it. So I shared a similar story. I agree with him. Nothing wrong with a V6. Even older ones.

[@gogetter3303]

Love my 2016 charger SXT! Wouldn’t change a thing